Kia definitely has stepped up the game with the third-generation Optima brought in last year and has possibly rewritten the benchmark for the value quotient and equipment levels in the affordable midsize sedan segment. For that reason, the 2012 Kia Optima ranks pretty high in our score books this model year outshining some of the major players like the Honda Accord, the Nissan Altima, the Toyota Camry, and even its sibling the Hyundai Sonata in several aspects. However, times have not been kind to Kia/Hyundai as one of their bread and butter engine have been traced to have a critical manufacturing flaw which almost more ensures an engine failure sometime soon in the vehicle's life cycle. This single factor just dropped the desirability level of this sedan so hard that we even doubt our rankings now. So, is it sensible to buy one for its asking price of $19,500 this year or should you switch choices for the run-of-the-mill sedans? Well, this article might have the answer for that.
2012 Kia Optima User Complaints and Problems
Mechanical Complaints
- Engine problems- Hyundai/Kia has been on a roll with their vehicles in recent times for suspected engine failure due to faulty manufacturing of the internal components (connecting rod bearings). The manufacturer has admitted the defect and has rolled out a recall (ID-17V224000) for inspection, rectification, or replacement (if necessary) of the affected units. Excessive oil consumption, knocking, occasional stalls, and metal contamination of engine oil are some indications of failing engine internals. A recent update also shows that the replacement engine received might have a fuel leakage issue in the engine compartment due to improperly torqued high-pressure fuel line attachments which increases the risk of a fire.
Electric System complaints
- Brake light Issues- The brake lights on the 2012 Kia Optima tend to remain illuminated even when the foot is taken off from the brake pedal. The issue was traced be with a plastic part in the brake pedal light trigger switch that prematurely breaks off due to repeated braking cycles.
- Radio problems- Radio problems/ media system issues on the 2012 Kia Optima can arise in a variety of ways. Loss of audio through speakers, no backup camera, black display, and software glitches affecting Bluetooth and radio connectivity are the main issues reported. Since the cause of the varying issues is mostly different, the remedy also varies. Cases of entire media head unit replacements are also not that uncommon.
Structural issues
- Steering problems- Steering coupler failure is another common issue on the 2012 Kia Optima. A stuck steering wheel or clicking sounds are some indications of a faulty steering column coupler. Though no recalls have been initiated in association with this issue, Kia has extended the warranty on the part to 10 years/ unlimited mileage from 5 years/60,000 miles. However, owners who have replaced it at their own expense prior to this statement have not been given any sort of reimbursements.
- Paint Peeling- Excessive paint peeling and delamination has been an issue on the 2012 Kia Optima as several other vehicles that got optioned with the pearl white paint job. The manufacturer is under a class action lawsuit for this and should be forced to extend the paint warranty from 36 months.
2012 Kia Optima Recalls
|
S. No |
Date |
NHTSA ID |
Issues Noticed |
Additional Remarks |
Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
19th December 2019 |
18V907000 |
The high-pressure fuel pipe may leak |
The high-pressure fuel pipe that connects to the fuel pump outlet may have been damaged, misaligned, or improperly torqued during the engine replacement procedure, possibly causing a fuel leak and increasing the risk of a fire. |
The dealers will inspect and replace the fuel pipe, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on January 17, 2019. |
|
2 |
1st June 2018 |
18V363000 |
Airbag/ seatbelt pre-tensioners may be disabled |
In the event of a crash, the airbag control unit (ACU) may short circuit, preventing the frontal airbags and seat belt pre-tensioners from deploying, increasing the risk of occupant injury. |
Kia will instruct dealers to install the extension wire harness kit. The recall began on September 28, 2018. |
|
3 |
31st March 2017 |
17V224000 |
Bearing wear may result in engine seizure. |
Machining errors during the engine manufacturing process may cause premature bearing wear within the engine, which can cause a stall and increase the risk of a crash. |
The dealers will inspect the engine assembly, and replace the engine if necessary, free of charge. The recall began on June 20, 2017. |
Should you buy a used 2012 Kia Optima?
The Kia Optima, brand new, is a truly exceptional midsize sedan from the automaker, which does most things well and has really taken the game to the all-time praised Japanese rivals this year. However, it did not take time for things to go south with the manufacturer admitting to critical engine failure and complaints piling up from one end. However, Kia has promised to keep the owners covered here with their extended warranty policy which might help ease up the minds of users. However, does it remain on our top recommendation lists? Well, probably not for this model year at least and hopefully, Kia comes up with a permanent solution to this sooner than later.
